E.L.F. mini Haul | Kabuki, Lashes, etc.|

This package just came in today and I just can’t wait to blog about how pleased I am with my small purchase. But before I shopped online, I made sure that I’m getting some deals as my way of practicing frugal shopping. Luckily, at the time I made the purchase, e.l.f. was having a free shipping deal on orders $13 or more plus I used a coupon code CAROLINA which is a 50% off your entire purchase. Now how cool is that?! This coupon is still working and I'm not sure when its gonna expire.

I have been looking online for smaller face brushes for my forthcoming trip and I came across this Kabuki brush from elf and apparently all the reviews are positive. Apart from the great reviews, it is only $6 compared to other brands that doesn't go lower than $10. So I finally gave in then went ahead and bought the kabuki. Now this brush has just exceeded my expectations and I must say it is incredibly of great quality. The bristles are extremely soft in spite of the synthetic material being used. It is pretty dense and of course no shedding. It’s a really great alternative for your face powder brush and also the best tool for traveling. I just wish it comes with a bag or pouch for hygienic reasons in case you're carrying it in your purse. 

The next item that I bought is their studio cream eyeliner in black. This one for me is quite good but not too exceptional. They claimed it to be smudge-proof and water-resistant coverage for all day wear. But neither the color was that jet black like what is shown in their video and after a few hours it fades a little bit and it smudges in the corners of my eyes dreadfully. I guess if it is used with a primer then most probably you can say it’s great for all day use. It does apply smoothly and easily which I do think that it’s a decent product given that it only costs $3.00 including a cute brush applicator.

The last two products that I purchased were the lash kits and the eyelid primer. If you don't want to spend more on fake eyelashes, the elf lashes are the way to go. They are very natural looking, it makes your lashes appear fuller and they only costs $1 each. It also comes with a lash adhesive gel and the cap has a little wand attached to it. The eyelid primer also costs $1 and it does a great job as well. It is smooth as you apply it on your eyelids, the shadows stays longer and its not too heavy on the skin. I must say it's just as great as the urban decay eyelid primer. And with the price... you can't beat that. Highly recommended definitely. 

Disclaimer: All products were purchased by yours truly :) I am not affiliated with this company and not paid to make this review.  These are my honest thoughts and opinions.

Birkinesque bags at a non-Birkin price

Everyone is familiar with the infamous Birkin Bag by Hermes by now. It is widely seen clutched by A-list celebrities and rich people who doesn't know what to do with their money. Anyone with $5K-up can definitely get their hands on it. Not me, though…that is way too lavish and impractical. How did they come up with the name? It was inspired by the actress Jane Birkin so as naming it after her and has since become an icon. Now why is this bag exceedingly expensive? They range from $9,000 to $150,000 each bag, which is crazy just for a bag! But I can’t blame them considering the fact that they use expensive materials, real leather and high-priced animal skins. Apart from the type of materials used, each bag is delicately handmade in France by expert artisans which justifies the cost of the Birkin bag. But with the price getting pretty challenging for this luxurious trend, it is highly replicated and you can even find a lot of knock off Birkins by street vendors. 

For those who are crazy about the design but can't afford or would not spend that much for a purse, then here are some pretty Birkin-looking bags from well-known brands as well that are much reasonable buys with just as appealing as the Birkin Bags:

Reg. $98.00 / Sale $72.99

 March Fisher Handbag, dress for success flat purse combines boxy with foxy, in an embossed reptile pattern. (photo by macys.com)

Reg. $99.00

Melie Bianco Terri satchel bag is accentuated with a nice belt-like material tied around the upper part or the bag. (photo by piperlime)

Priced @ $178.00

Vienna Signature Satchel by Calvin Klein with its ultra chic lock in great style featuring their signature padlock hardware. It has a subtle printed body and soft leather trim completes this timeless design. (photo by macys)

Priced @ $198.00

Another Calvin Klein handbag, Vienna Satchel in color red which showcases lovely pebbled leather, a glossy decorative padlock and a detachable cross body strap for versatile wear. (photo by macys)

Priced @ $208.00

Fossil handbags are known for really durable materials with such robust look. Recently they released a design that will suit the latest trend and still demonstrates their trademark. This Fossil Vintage Reissue Leather Satchel is so gorgeous, it defines boho-chic elegance in vintage silhouette and vibrant hues. (photo by macys)

Priced @ $298.00

MICHAEL Michael Kors handbag, Hamilton Gold Hardware East West Satchel  is the key to chic. It has 18K gold accents and buttery soft matte leather. Lovely! (photo by macys)

Priced @ 358.00

Chelsea Leather Jayden Carryall by COACH. A tailored carryall accented with contrasting leather straps and a belting detail for a chic spectator effect. The distinctive chainlink stations and an elongated Chelsea turnlock add luxury and character to it. (photo by coach)

Priced @ $398.00

MICHAEL Michael Kors Hamilton Gold Hardware Ostrich North South handbag is a choice workday-to-weekend bag. This posh ostrich leather tote combines dramatic texturing with an architectural silhouette and finishes the luxe look with an 18K gold padlock. (photo by macys)

Disclaimer: Post not sponsored.

Color Block Dress Trends

I have first seen color block outfit when Kate Winslet wore this stunning optical illusion dress by Stella McCartney during the Venice Film Festival last year. It was cleverly designed which misleads the viewers of thinking that Kate is two sizes slimmer. The black panels gave her an hour glass figure in a very charming way. Since then it went uproar to the fashion world and women who were almost desperate in pulling off a sexy guise were now able to flatter their figures through this magical dress. 

Photo courtesy of Shine Yahoo!

The Stella McCartney dress costs a whopping $1,600 which I doubt many women can afford. Here’s a few easy on the pocket alternatives that would definitely make you look just as fabulous and as buttered up as Kate. All dresses are $50 less but will certainly flatter your body without even going under the knife. :)

Photo courtesy of Charlotterusse.com

 

 

 

 

This Ruched-Side Color Block Dress comes in knit fabric with contrast sides in ruched chiffon. It is stretchy and body fit. Retails for $29.99 but recently on sale for only $14.99.

 

Photo courtesy of charlotterusse.com

 

This Color Block Zip-Back Dress is a tube dress which comes in scuba-knit fabric with a body-con fit with exposed zipper at the back. Was retailed for $28.99 and now on sale for $20.49.

Photo courtesy of charlotterusse.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 My third favorite from Charlotterusse would be this Mesh Cutout Body-Con Dress. This clubbing dress comes in ponte-knit fabric with sheer mess cutouts for added appeal.  Was $29.99 and recently on sale for $14.99.

 

 

 

Photo courtesy of macys.com

 

 

 

The XOXO sleeveless colorblock dress is perfect for casual which can be transitioned from desk to dinner without skipping a beat. Pair it with heels and a sleek blazer for a sophisticated look. Regular price was $68.00, now on sale for $41.99.

Photo courtesy of Sears.com

Photo courtesy of Sears.com

I just love this dress! It looks simple but with the right accessories, it will look fabulous. Unfortunately, this dress is only sold in Canada. This Attitude/MD Colour block dress is only $24.33.

Photo courtesy of ASOS.com

ASOS Cut Out Side Dress in Color Block is a body con mini dress featuring a contrast color block main, slash neckline, sleeveless styling, with cut out sides and a V back.  It will definitely make you look sexy especially with a V back and cut out sides. Retails for $53.72 and now on sale for $19.70

Photo courtesy of ASOS.com

Another really cute color block dress from ASOS for only $39.39 (was $57.30). A Paprika Color Block Bandeau Dress featuring a sweetheart neckline, contrast color block panels to the main with ruched side seams and a bow design to the front.

Photo courtesy of forever21.com

         This colorblock dress from Forever21 looks really cute with knit short sleeves, round neck and exposed back zipper. Price is $19.80.

Money Issues

This is a guest post written by Brittany Booker.

When a girl at my office asked me about DirectstarTv.com I didn’t really know what to tell her. I knew she was about to get laid off since I was on the HR team and the last thing I wanted her to do with that information was to sign up for a service that she was going to have to spend money on. It’s really hard being a part of the human resources department at a time when we’re cutting so many people because we’re a relatively small company and it’s tough having to let go people I have really grown to care about. My mom tried to tell me that it’s all part of the job and someone has to do it but it doesn’t help me feel any less bad about it when I go home at night. I want to remain friends with some of these people but I find that after I have to let them go that’s kind of the last thing they want to do which is totally understandable.

L'Oreal HiP Studio Secrets Professional Metallic Eye Shadow Duo

L'Oreal HiP Studio Secrets Professional Metallic Eye Shadow Duo in Electrified.

There’s so much to rave about this shadow and the best word to describe it is just awesome!  I bought this at Walgreens for about $7.99, which is reasonable for its gorgeous color and better pigmentation. I decided to pick up the shade ‘Electrified’ as it perfectly goes well with the look I’m planning to sport on an approaching special occasion. It comes with a sponge applicator too.

Here's the swatch..

It comes in two lovely shades. I can’t really tell what exact names of the colors but one is a shimmery taupe color which is indeed metallic and best to illuminate while the other color looks like a darker violet with some shimmer on it too which is perfect for defining the eye for maximum effect. The darker shade can also be used to contour the crease. 

Both shadows are absolutely beautiful. It is highly pigmented, smooth and velvety upon application, it blends really well and the colors are just so pretty. It lasted longer with the help of eye primer therefore I can’t really say it does last longer just by the shadows itself. Since I don’t normally wear dark eyeshadow colors, I find it rather versatile because you can simply put on one color on the lid and just blend more and then either apply some eyeliner or mascara and you’re good to go! For me, it is totally worth the money and it’s so easy to carry around especially if you’re traveling. This is better than carrying a huge eyeshadow palette. 

Walgreens Prescription Savings Club

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Walgreens for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.


As of January 1, 2012, Walgreens is no longer a part of Express Scripts Program. After lengthy negotiations and unsuccessful agreement on new contract terms with the pharmacy provider network, Walgreen Co. is moving toward helping patients covered by an Express Scripts pharmacy network to remain using Walgreen locations after their contract ends.

What is Express Scripts Program?

Express Scripts is a pharmacy benefit manager, which is a health insurance plan for prescription medications which facilitates millions of members. The services they provide to their clients are the discounts on branded and generic medications from drugstores; they also offer mail delivery or orders and online payment. These are just a few of Express Scripts program services. One of their largest clients is the United States Department of Defense's TRICARE program. Express Scripts Inc. pays Walgreen and other drugstore operators to fill prescriptions as well.

Ending the contract with Walgreens despite the incessant offers that was tendered will definitely disrupt Military personnel, veterans, families as well as supporters. It could threaten all community drugstores in your area. Being one of the significant parts of the community or neighborhood, it is imperative to people to protect their choice of Walgreens as a pharmacy and health care provider. Nonetheless, patients under Express Scripts plans are the only one’s affected. You can just imagine the hassle for the regular customer in terms of prescription records or possibly a fine relationship with their Walgreens pharmacist.

You can also read their press release here Walgreens and Express Script

Walgreens is doing their best to help ease the burden for customers or patients who used to be conveniently taking their prescription refills nearby their house. I live really close to Walgreens and I’m so thankful for that. I love shopping there and I was never worried about medicines or stuff that I need health-wise. Amid the steps on reducing inconvenience, Walgreens is offering a special discount on annual membership for Walgreens Prescription Savings Club which is for $10 a year, a family membership covers everyone in your immediate family, including a spouse, dependents 22 and younger as well as pets. Individuals may join for $5. You can also save on more than 8,000 brand-name and all generic medications, discounts on flu shots, pet prescriptions, nebulizer and diabetic supplies plus bonuses when you purchase Walgreens brand products and photo finishing services.
If you would like to stay updated and also support Walgreens, please visit and like Walgreens on Facebook or Follow Walgreens on Twitter @Walgreens. Thank you.

Baby wipes vs. Makeup Removers

Beauty Tip 002

 

I have heard good things about using baby wipes in removing make ups and thus making me a believer. As a mom, it’s not new to me to have baby wipes laying around the house. I have used them for many things including makeup removal. I’m not completely getting rid of my makeup towelettes over baby wipes since I know they have better ingredients to remove makeup (and because they are made for that, of course!) I would still use baby wipes especially if I’m only using light makeup plus its one thing that I can easily reach for if I'm in a hurry or if I'm in a sluggish mode. Baby wipes are intended for sensitive skin like babies therefore it is known to be mild on the skin and also contains moisturizing agents which helps soothe the skin. They are not just mild on the skin but also to my pocket. However, whether I use baby wipes or makeup remover, I still follow up with my regular 3 step regime which is to cleanse, tone, and moisturize. I can tell that with the wipes alone my face isn’t completely clean without washing it with soap or a good face cleanser. With that, I feel fresh and free from oils and dirt that accumulated all day. 

Do keep in mind that both are totally different from each other in terms of ingredients and uses. Everybody’s skins are different and could not take the same regimen as mine.

Sigma Cleansing & Polishing Tool Review

Cleansing & Polishing Tool by Sigma

I’m starting my year off with a product review. Behold the Cleansing & Polishing Tool by Sigma.  I wasn’t expecting Sigma to venture on cleansing products because apparently their products are mostly leaning to makeup brushes and just recently they released the eye shadow palettes. I bought it 4 months ago and I really intend to take my time going through it for a much rational review. First impression though was that I find the tool/handle like its cheaply made but at the same time its ok because it is lightweight. I don’t own any other cleansing tools therefore I can’t make any comparisons with it. Amongst numerous cleansing tools in the market, this one is what I was intrigued the most because of its Body exfoliation mechanism. I sound so technical…but basically, the brush heads are essentially the main objects that does the polishing, cleansing and exfoliating. The skin on my face felt exploited the first time I used it. LOL! The soft brush head helps exfoliate dead skin cells and will then expose a healthy layer of the skin. Moisturizer application should then follow through. I think this product works really great and with the price I’d say it’s fantastic! By the time I got used to it, my face feels so smooth, fresh and clean. I use it once or twice a week since it is not advisable to exfoliate too often otherwise your skin will produce too much oil. I know it because it happened to me! And nobody wants a greasy face. I have yet to try the medium and firm brush heads so I can’t really say anything much about the body exfoliation (albeit the real purpose of my purchase). Overall, I think its a good product and I definitely recommend it. 

Features: Water resistant, requires 2 AA batteries and 2 brush heads for body exfoliation.

Most frequently used brush heads is advised to be replaced every 3-4 months.

Sigma now sells individual or replacement brush heads for $9 which is not bad at all.

Easy to attach brush heads.

Disclaimer: This product was purchased by yours truly :) I am not affiliated with this company and not paid to make this review.  These are my honest thoughts and opinions.